Lawmaker Embraces Social Media and Interviews to Stay Relevant
George Santos, the recently expelled and indicted Republican congressman, has been making efforts to remain in the public eye since his removal from the House of Representatives. Despite facing felony fraud and conspiracy charges, Santos has been actively seeking fame and fortune, leveraging social media platforms and appearing in interviews to stay relevant.
Internet Star Status and Controversial Interview
Santos has become an even bigger internet star after leaving Congress, embracing the internet culture that both mocks and celebrates him. In a recent interview with Ziwe Fumudoh, a renowned comedian and former talk show host, Santos called former President Trump an “icon” and expressed his admiration for “Gen Z progressives.” The interview quickly went viral, showcasing Santos’ desire for attention.
Ambitions and Legal Troubles
Despite Santos’ efforts to pursue fame and fortune, his federal charges may hinder his Hollywood ambitions. It remains uncertain whether Santos will stand trial or strike a deal with prosecutors, and the outcome of his case is yet to be determined. Additionally, Santos may face backlash from his donors, who can request their money back. However, the recovery of funds may prove difficult, as Santos’ campaign reportedly refunded more money than he raised.
Flaws in Campaign Finance Laws
Santos’ case has highlighted the flaws in federal campaign finance laws, with experts pointing out the lack of funding for the Federal Election Commission to adequately audit campaigns. The insufficient oversight enables bad actors to go unpunished, and stricter regulations are necessary to address these issues. However, members of Congress may not be motivated to overhaul the laws due to potential restrictions on their own campaigns.
Appealing to the Public’s Desire for Drama
Santos’ scandal-ridden persona has captured the attention of the general public, as people are naturally drawn to dramatic stories. Santos, who thrives in front of the camera and makes outlandish statements, continues to attract viewers and followers. The interview with Ziwe emphasized Santos’ awareness of his controversial image and his desire to stay in the spotlight.
Despite Ziwe’s suggestion that Santos should “go away,” the demand for his content remains high, indicating that his pursuit of internet fame may not wane anytime soon.